Elton John and the Red Hot Chili Peppers are collaborating on new music. The unlikely team-up comes after the Chilis covered Elt’s hit Tiny Dancer back in 1998.

Elton has been branching out ­musically since the release of his last solo album in January, working with British classical-influenced pop group Clean Bandit, as well as writing with Lady Gaga for her upcoming album.

A source said: “Anthony got in touch when he heard Elton was in town at the start of the year, and asked him to come down to the studio where they were recording. They were delighted when he said yes. The track they’ve done together is really great.

“The Chilis have always been huge fans of Elton – and it’s been five years since their last album, so they were really excited about coming back with a bang.

“Elton has been really up for working with different artists so it all coincided really well.”

There are reports Elton, 68, is also working with rapper Young Thug on a remake of Rocket Man. Anthony spoke about the group’s upcoming 11th album, produced by Danger Mouse, last month. He revealed: “We’re almost finished with the record, it’s been interesting and different and fun. I think we’ve tapped into ­something new.”

This week drummer Chad Smith also posted a photo on Instagram of himself in the studio with Radiohead’s producer, Nigel Godrich.

The band are all set to play the festival circuit this summer, including Reading and Leeds Festival and T In The Park.